'I’ve been around a while': Biden uses State of the Union to frame age as strength

President Joe Biden did not shy away from concerns over his age in Thursday's State of the Union address.

As concerns about the candidate's ability to effectively serve another four-year term weigh on his reelection bid, the 81-year-old prioritized delivering a quick-paced speech packed with energy and topped with a few jokes.

"I know I may not look like it, but I’ve been around a while," Biden quipped. "And when you get to my age certain things become clearer than ever before."

The Democratic frontrunner emphasized that he is still up for the job, saying that his experiences throughout his live taught him embrace freedom and democracy. He cited his decades of political experience and hearkened back to a time when his youth was used as a criticism against him.

"In my career I’ve been told I’m too young and I’m too old. Whether young or old, I’ve always known what endures. Our North Star," he said.

Biden calls out Trump without name dropping

Biden had a lot to say about his "predecessor" Donald Trump, 77, but refused to name the former president.

During his speech, Biden alluded to having different core values for America, including "Honesty. Decency. Dignity. Equality," than the presumptive Republican nominee.

"To respect everyone. To give everyone a fair shot. To give hate no safe harbor. Now some other people my age see a different story. An American story of resentment, revenge, and retribution," Biden said.

In another dig at Trump, he also expressed a loyalty to U.S. democracy regardless of an election outcome.

"This is a moment to speak the truth and bury the lies," he said. "And here’s the simplest truth. You can’t love your country only when you win," Biden said.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Biden's State of the Union address includes age, longevity remarks